GABBY + TESSA

Photos By: Jennifer Burch Photography

LOCATION: BIDJA ESTATE

THE DATE: 20th August 2022

HOW THEY MET? Gabby & Tessa met whilst studying the same course at TAFE 10 years prior to their big day. After a friendly exchange of smiles and an immediate introduction, they became fast friends for the 3 month duration of their course, however, didn’t get the chance to talk much after that. After 8 months of no contact, Gabby decided to text an awkward ice breaker saying ‘Which Tessa is this?’. Luckily Tessa didn’t find it too cringeworthy and agreed to meet at the local pub. The date ended up going for about 7hrs and they've been together ever since!

THE PROPOSAL: Tessa picked Gabby up from the airport after she returned from a work trip. It was their 7th anniversary, so they decided to watch the sunset and have some champagne to celebrate. As they watched the sun set, Tessa handed me a custom made Retro Viewer as an anniversary present. Each photo in the view finder was of Tessa holding a sign in a different outfit and pose. At the end of the series of signs was a cheesy poem with the last photo asking Gabby to marry her!

HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY: The moment they saw each other for the first time as Tessa walked down the aisle toward Gabby. Refer to to the photo that shows the look on Gabby's face #priceless.

THE PLANNING: Once the venue was locked in, Gabby & Tessa used Central Coast Weddings to find local vendors. Various other online platforms were also useful as basic wedding planners, highlighting any areas they didn’t realise that they needed.

THE STYLE: Gabby & Tessa created a rustic vibe to tie in with the aesthetics of barn at Bidja Estate. They wanted it to feel low key, with nothing being too over the top.

DIY ELEMENTS: Everything was DIY, which meant they had to think about every little detail. The venue was great. It included wooden trestle tables, chairs, wine barrels, and props, plus they helped coordinate the vendors and were there to answer any questions we had over the weekend. Gabby & Tessa also had a working crew of friends and family the day before helping set everything up to complete the finishing touches.

CEREMONY SONG: Stand by Me by Florence and the Machine

THE FIRST DANCE: Happy Together by King Princess and Mark Ronson

THE BLOOPERS: Tessa's dad's speech was a rollercoaster. No one knew what was coming next. Laughter, tears, fear - it had it all.

HOT TIPS: Start organising it EARLY. Everything creeps up quickly with DIY weddings, so book your venue and vendors in as early as possible (approx one year out) to avoid disappointment. Allow yourself a few of months to sort out the overall design and set up logistics of the day. Life is busy so do a few tasks a week, keep it light, and don't stress about the details - your guests are there because they love you.

THE VENDORS: Celebrant - Alicia Johns Photography - Jennifer Burch Photography Hair and Makeup - Divine Hair and Makeup Venue - Bidja Estate Catering - Billy Goat Catering Florist - Maryan Wills Suit - Shane Ave Dress - Unique Bridal Collection